Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered an additional 2,500 to 3,000 troops to the U.S.-Mexico border, continuing President Trump’s push to curb illegal crossings.
According to a U.S. official, the deployment—approved Friday—includes a Stryker Brigade Combat Team (SBCT) and General Support Aviation Battalion to reinforce border security operations. Pentagon officials indicated more troops could be sent in the coming weeks.
Fort Bliss, Texas, has been identified as a key site for detaining thousands of migrants, with site visits already completed.
This move comes despite a significant drop in border crossings since the 2021 peak, a trend that has continued since Trump’s inauguration. The administration previously deployed 1,500 troops days after taking office, adding to the 2,500 National Guard troops stationed under the Biden administration.
Mexico has pushed back against increased U.S. border militarization, warning against violations of its sovereignty as tensions over cartel activity and migration enforcement persist.
